Lost veterans honored at Ceremony in the Foothills

FOX 9's Adam Klepp shares what veterans say Memorial Day is about, and the story of a soldier who never made it home

YUMA, Ariz. (KECY, KYMA) - All gave some, but some gave all.

“I’d like to thank all of you for being here, on this Memorial Day," VFW 1763 Post Commander Mark Martinez said. "I know some say Happy Memorial Day, but Memorial Day is a solemn day. Today is the day we remember our lost.”

Retired Marine Martin Grosvener was the honored speaker at the ceremony, and spoke about how all of those who wear the uniform know what they're risking.

 “Everybody gives. Especially all those young men and service women," Grosvener said. "But there are a few that give the ultimate sacrifice, they gave everything they have. They gave their lives.”

One Yuma local was there, holding a picture of his cousin, who died in Iraq.

“June of 2004, he was stationed in Iraq. And he was in the front of a Hummer. And an IED went off. And he passed away, but doing the job he loved to do. He loved the Marine Corps," veteran Mike Hosko said.

 Hosko says Memorial Day is important no matter where you live, but it carries more weight in a military town like Yuma.

“It wasn’t until I came to Yuma that I was welcomed. You couldn’t walk down 4th Avenue 100 foot and some veteran would pull you over and say "Where are you heading marine?" And would pick you up," Hosko said.

"Yuma has always been welcoming to guests. And now it’s my turn to say welcome to Yuma.”